When it comes to finding the best place to stay in London, I reckon that Leman Locke in Aldgate stands out as an exceptional choice. As a traveler who recently had the pleasure of staying at this stylish and modern serviced apartment, I can confidently say that it offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and chic design that is hard to find elsewhere in the city. In this detailed review, I will share my experience of staying at Leman Locke and why I believe it is one of the top accommodations in London.
Location
Perfectly Positioned for Exploring London
Leman Locke’s location is one of its biggest selling points. Situated in Aldgate, it’s less than a 15-minute walk to the iconic Tower Bridge, making it a prime spot for tourists who want to explore the historic and cultural landmarks of London. Unlike some of the larger hotels in the area, when I was booking I found that Leman Locke offers a quieter, more intimate setting, yet it’s still within easy reach of major attractions.
The Aldgate East Underground Station is just a 5-minute walk away, providing quick access to the rest of the city. And once you figure out the underground everything is close in London. Whether you’re in London for business or leisure, you’ll find that the location is incredibly convenient. Liverpool Street, one of the city’s major transportation hubs, is also within walking distance, making it easy to travel to other parts of the UK or catch a train to the airport. Also Whitechapel high street is right nearby. The area is up and coming, some nearby streets can seem a bit grimey but I never had an issue with safety. The location’s convenience was a winner for me.
Design and Atmosphere
A Blend of Retro-Industrial and Modern Chic
From the moment you step into Leman Locke, you are greeted with a unique blend of retro-industrial and modern chic design. The building itself exudes a cool, contemporary vibe, with its wooden floors and industrial-style architecture that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The attention to detail in the design is evident throughout the property, from the lobby to the individual apartments. Nice aroma from the air freshener as well. It is a very well kept and clean building.
The atmosphere at Leman Locke is one of relaxed sophistication. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind after a long day of sightseeing or meetings, yet still feel like you’re part of the vibrant London scene.
The communal spaces, including the café and restaurant on the ground floor, are welcoming and stylish, making them perfect spots for grabbing a coffee or a bite to eat.
The Locke Studio
More Than Just a Place to Sleep
I stayed in one of the Locke Studios, and it was clear from the outset that this was more than just a place to sleep—it was a place to live. For me a week and a few days. The studio was spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed, offering all the comforts of home with the added perks of a high-end hotel. One of the standout features of the studio was the separate living area, complete with a large, comfy sofa that was perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the city.
The king-size bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep, while the pink signature Locke L-shaped sofa added a touch of personality to the space. The floor-to-ceiling windows allowed for plenty of natural light, making the studio feel even more spacious and inviting.
Fully Equipped Kitchen
A Home Cook’s Dream
One of the biggest advantages of staying at Leman Locke is the fully equipped kitchen in each studio. The Smeg kitchen was a real highlight, complete with a hob, washer/dryer, fridge/freezer, and microwave. Whether you want to prepare a quick breakfast or cook a full dinner, you’ll find everything you need right at your fingertips. The kitchen was stocked with designer cooking gear and even included a Hemsley & Hemsley cookbook, making it easy to whip up something delicious.
For those who prefer to dine out, the surrounding area of Aldgate and Whitechapel High Street offers a variety of food options. However, having the option to cook in the comfort of your own space is a luxury that many travelers will appreciate, especially those on extended stays. There is a Tesco about 5 minutes away and a Sainsbury’s 15 minutes away by foot. Also plenty of places to eat in the area.
Amenities
Thoughtful Touches for a Comfortable Stay
Leman Locke goes above and beyond when it comes to amenities. The studio was stocked with a variety of goodies, including teas, coffee, biscuits, and great bathroom products. The fast, secure WiFi ensured that I was able to stay connected throughout my stay. That said I did buy a local SIM to have mobile coverage without roaming fees. The smart TV and air conditioning added to the overall comfort, while the designer furnishings gave the space a luxurious feel.
One of the most impressive features of the studio was the rainfall shower in the bathroom. It provided a spa-like experience, making it the perfect way to unwind after a busy day in the city. The cleanliness of the room and the space, in general, was also commendable. Everything was spotless, and it was clear that the staff take great pride in maintaining the property to a high standard.
Service
Friendly, Efficient, and Attentive
From the moment I checked in, I was struck by the efficiency and friendliness of the staff at Leman Locke. The check-in process was quick and seamless, and within minutes, I was on my way to my room. Throughout my stay, the staff were always on hand to assist with any requests, whether it was providing extra tea and coffee or responding to a maintenance issue.
One particular instance stood out during my stay—a light in my studio stopped working. A quick message to the reception via WhatsApp, and within 10 minutes, someone was at my door to fix it. This level of service is rare, even in some of the higher-end hotels in London, and it made a significant difference to my overall experience.
Facilities
Everything You Need Under One Roof
Leman Locke offers a range of facilities that cater to both short-term and long-term stays. The café downstairs is a great spot for breakfast or a mid-morning coffee, and the on-site restaurant serves up delicious meals throughout the day. For those who like to stay active, there’s a well-equipped gym that’s free for guests to use.
The communal areas are designed to be both functional and stylish, with plenty of seating areas where guests can work or relax. The overall vibe of the property is one of community, making it easy to feel at home even if you’re staying for an extended period.
Value for Money
A Smart Choice for London Accommodation
When you consider the location, design, amenities, and level of service, Leman Locke offers exceptional value for money. The spacious studios and apartments provide much more room than a typical hotel room, and the ability to cook your meals can save you money on dining out. Compared to some of the larger hotels in the area, Leman Locke is not only more affordable but also offers a more personalized and comfortable experience.
The fact that you get all of this in such a convenient location, within walking distance of major attractions and public transportation, makes Leman Locke a smart choice for anyone looking to stay in London.
Safety and Surroundings
A Peaceful Oasis in a Bustling City
Despite being in the heart of East London, Leman Locke is located in a relatively quiet area, surrounded by residential apartments. This adds to the sense of safety and tranquility, making it a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. The neighborhood itself is vibrant and diverse, with a range of food options and cultural experiences right on your doorstep.
I never felt unsafe during my stay, and the security measures in place at Leman Locke further added to my peace of mind. The area is well-lit and busy enough to feel secure, yet not so crowded that it becomes overwhelming.
Final Thoughts
A Memorable Stay at Leman Locke
In conclusion, my stay at Leman Locke in Aldgate was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of its prime location, stylish design, comfortable accommodations, and attentive service makes it one of the best places to stay in London. Whether you’re in the city for a night, a week, or a month, Leman Locke offers a home away from home where you can truly relax and unwind.
For those searching for a detailed ‘Leman Locke review,’ I hope this provides you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. Leman Locke is not just a place to stay—it’s a place to live, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for accommodation in London. From the spacious, well-equipped studios to the friendly and efficient service, every aspect of my stay was carefully curated to ensure a memorable experience. If you’re looking for the best place to stay in London, look no further than Leman Locke in Aldgate.
